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Pretty Broken Promises
I promised myself I would finally walk away from Tessa and not look back.
All we ever did was hurt each other. We weren’t strong enough to fight for what we had and too weak to let it go.
Or so I thought.
The truth was I was the weak one, and she had been fighting for us the entire time. Now she’s letting me go and making promises to another man.
That revelation brought me to my knees, and that’s where I’ll stay until I can convince her to try one more time.
If we’re going to stand a chance I have to convince her that some promises were made to be broken.
All we ever did was hurt each other. We weren’t strong enough to fight for what we had and too weak to let it go.
Or so I thought.
The truth was I was the weak one, and she had been fighting for us the entire time. Now she’s letting me go and making promises to another man.
That revelation brought me to my knees, and that’s where I’ll stay until I can convince her to try one more time.
If we’re going to stand a chance I have to convince her that some promises were made to be broken.
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
Published April 25, 2024
35 people are currently reading
52 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Carrillo
20 books298 followersKimberly Carrillo is a storyteller from the Pacific Northwest, currently living in a small town with her teenage son and a house full of pets. The author of the romantic suspense Destroy Series, and other books, Kimberly writes tales of beautiful, messy love. When she isn’t reading or out supporting her son at sports events she can be found moving a cat off her keyboard so she can help the heroine find the love that she deserves.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
April 29, 2024
a roller coaster of emotions
The conclusion of Ford and Tessa story. What a roller coaster these two had. I was conflicted on what she should do but there really was never a choice.
The conclusion of Ford and Tessa story. What a roller coaster these two had. I was conflicted on what she should do but there really was never a choice.
April 30, 2024
This duet had so much promise. I liked the story at the beginning of Book 1, but all the extra twists and turns did not mesh well together at all! It was horrible. At one point I felt like I was reading a narrative in a history book. The author didn’t explain how a lot of the events happened but just glossed over them. Bennett is spelled different ways throughout the book. Sometimes it’s Bennet and sometimes Bennett. There was a chapter from Ford’s POV that was labeled as Tessa. I’m pretty sure Tessa showed Ford her number was blocked twice as if she hadn’t already showed him. First and last book/series from this author.
August 22, 2024
Angst
Spoiler: it had waaay to much angst and drama and f'd up that H was friends with girls he slept with and voyeurism. Book 1 was so bad and off the rails. The h was tortured and treated like absolute garbage. I wish the never stayed friends with the whole group when they finally decide to be with each other. How can the h take this guy back?! Rape, abuse you name it. I hated the found family in this one they were all dysfunctional and should stay away from each other. Always lust even though they didn't want to be with that person, but hey they are nice piece of ass.
Spoiler: it had waaay to much angst and drama and f'd up that H was friends with girls he slept with and voyeurism. Book 1 was so bad and off the rails. The h was tortured and treated like absolute garbage. I wish the never stayed friends with the whole group when they finally decide to be with each other. How can the h take this guy back?! Rape, abuse you name it. I hated the found family in this one they were all dysfunctional and should stay away from each other. Always lust even though they didn't want to be with that person, but hey they are nice piece of ass.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2024
Way to angsty for me. H treats h like the lowest form of animal/dirt. Friends treat her horrible. It's traumatic. If you want to see a broken down/wrecked h done in by the man she will always love and he sleeps with girls and stays friends and she should accept this and I'm sorry and want to try again...yuck. it's just disturbing and gross. Cliff hanger. I teared up at how awful he was. How much bad stuff can happen to 1 girl....read this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2024
Dnf @ 30%
Not sure how the Zero (no Hero here) having no emotion after being told the person he "loves" was be*ten and r*ped for days gets 5 star reviews but okay.
Not sure how the Zero (no Hero here) having no emotion after being told the person he "loves" was be*ten and r*ped for days gets 5 star reviews but okay.
April 12, 2025
Kimberly, Kimberly, Kimberly, girl! The rollercoaster ride that is the “Pretty Broken” duet is not one to be missed. I do not even know where to start with this book! The chokehold that is has on me will be hard to shake anytime soon.
I went into this book completely blind, and I am so glad I did! In book one, “Pretty Broken Things,” we meet our MMC, Ford, who is anything but your typical star quarterback. Coming from the poor side of town, Ford attends high school in a wealthy neighbourhood, which is a stark contrast to his reality of an absent mother and an abusive father. But Ford is not the only character from a broken home. Our FMC, Tessa, also grapples with a painful family dynamic. To Ford and their classmates, Tessa is the perfect little rich girl. However, the truth is far darker: she has been abandoned by both her parents—her mother left when she was in her early teens, and her father chooses the comfort of his office over being present at home. Their stories of struggle and resilience intertwine in a powerful way that drew me in from the very first page!
The internal struggles within both Ford and Tessa are portrayed with such raw authenticity that it's impossible not to feel deeply invested in their journey. Each character grapples with their past traumas, and as they begin to heal, the shadows of their histories threaten to pull them back into darkness. Their love becomes a double-edged sword—offering solace and hope but also forcing them to confront their deepest fears and insecurities.
What sets this romance apart is how it goes beyond just the external conflicts. Kimberly masterfully delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the fight for one's own happiness. Tessa's struggle with her self-worth and Ford's battle with the weight of his upbringing create a rich emotional landscape that is both heartbreaking and relatable. The climax is intense and unexpected, straying from the typical resolutions we're accustomed to in romance novels. Instead of a straightforward resolution, we're faced with a culmination of choices that put everything they’ve fought for on the line, making the stakes feel incredibly high. It’s this unpredictable path that kept me on the edge of my seat, rooting for them to find their way back to each other amidst the chaos.
In the Broken Duet, the physical connection between Ford and Tessa is masterfully woven into the narrative, adding a tantalizing layer that complements their emotional journey. The stunningly crafted sensual scenes are not just filler; they deepen the complexity of their relationship and amplify the tension throughout the story. Kimberly’s vivid descriptions create an atmosphere that is both steamy and immersive, ensuring that readers feel every spark and every heated moment between the characters.
From the very first chapter, the chemistry between Ford and Tessa is electric, capturing the reader's attention and drawing them into a world where desire and vulnerability coexist. The intimate moments are beautifully written, striking a perfect balance between passion and sensuality without crossing into gratuitous territory. Each encounter is meticulously crafted, allowing readers to experience the growing bond between the characters on both physical and emotional levels.
A 4-chilli spice rating is well-deserved, as the sexual tension continuously builds, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Just when you think you know what to expect, the story surprises you with a new twist that elevates the interaction between the two, making each scene feel fresh and exhilarating. Ultimately, the passion in this duet enhances not only the romance but also the characters’ growth, making them journey all the more compelling.
I went into this book completely blind, and I am so glad I did! In book one, “Pretty Broken Things,” we meet our MMC, Ford, who is anything but your typical star quarterback. Coming from the poor side of town, Ford attends high school in a wealthy neighbourhood, which is a stark contrast to his reality of an absent mother and an abusive father. But Ford is not the only character from a broken home. Our FMC, Tessa, also grapples with a painful family dynamic. To Ford and their classmates, Tessa is the perfect little rich girl. However, the truth is far darker: she has been abandoned by both her parents—her mother left when she was in her early teens, and her father chooses the comfort of his office over being present at home. Their stories of struggle and resilience intertwine in a powerful way that drew me in from the very first page!
The internal struggles within both Ford and Tessa are portrayed with such raw authenticity that it's impossible not to feel deeply invested in their journey. Each character grapples with their past traumas, and as they begin to heal, the shadows of their histories threaten to pull them back into darkness. Their love becomes a double-edged sword—offering solace and hope but also forcing them to confront their deepest fears and insecurities.
What sets this romance apart is how it goes beyond just the external conflicts. Kimberly masterfully delves into themes of identity, belonging, and the fight for one's own happiness. Tessa's struggle with her self-worth and Ford's battle with the weight of his upbringing create a rich emotional landscape that is both heartbreaking and relatable. The climax is intense and unexpected, straying from the typical resolutions we're accustomed to in romance novels. Instead of a straightforward resolution, we're faced with a culmination of choices that put everything they’ve fought for on the line, making the stakes feel incredibly high. It’s this unpredictable path that kept me on the edge of my seat, rooting for them to find their way back to each other amidst the chaos.
In the Broken Duet, the physical connection between Ford and Tessa is masterfully woven into the narrative, adding a tantalizing layer that complements their emotional journey. The stunningly crafted sensual scenes are not just filler; they deepen the complexity of their relationship and amplify the tension throughout the story. Kimberly’s vivid descriptions create an atmosphere that is both steamy and immersive, ensuring that readers feel every spark and every heated moment between the characters.
From the very first chapter, the chemistry between Ford and Tessa is electric, capturing the reader's attention and drawing them into a world where desire and vulnerability coexist. The intimate moments are beautifully written, striking a perfect balance between passion and sensuality without crossing into gratuitous territory. Each encounter is meticulously crafted, allowing readers to experience the growing bond between the characters on both physical and emotional levels.
A 4-chilli spice rating is well-deserved, as the sexual tension continuously builds, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Just when you think you know what to expect, the story surprises you with a new twist that elevates the interaction between the two, making each scene feel fresh and exhilarating. Ultimately, the passion in this duet enhances not only the romance but also the characters’ growth, making them journey all the more compelling.
April 25, 2024
Pretty Broken Promises ( pretty Broken Duet book 2 ) After Reading Pretty Broken Things the start of Tessa and Fords Epic love story- I thought to myself There Is No Way Anything Could Beat This !!!These two have been through so much and if anyone deserves a happily ever after it’s Tessa and Ford . !’Well the conclusion is finally here and I could not have asked for a more perfect ending . So beautifully written and emotionally charged, filled with angst , humor , witty banter , love , passion, pain , obstacles, secrets, heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, off the charts chemistry, second chances, family and friendships . I really do feel like I was just taken on the ride of my life and completely blown away in all the best ways . Prepare yourself for all the feels and definitely keep the tissues close by because I can guarantee you’ll feel so many different emotions- everything from smiling, to laughing, to yelling outta frustration, to sobbing like a band and rooting so freaking hard . Pretty Broken promises is a must read 💜💜💜
May 18, 2024
3.5 Stars
Overall, I was happy to finally see Tessa and Ford get their HEA. However, the road to get there kind of fell flat for me. I almost DNF at 20%, but I had been excited for Tessa and Ford to get their HEA, so I pushed through. The first book was so enjoyable, but I just can’t pinpoint what it was about this one that had me not as invested other than the HEA. There were parts that were repetitive, and the arguments kept circling back to the same thing. I found myself skimming through certain passages and skipping some altogether.
I normally don’t mind love triangles, but this one just didn’t work for me. I felt like Tessa strung Benji along for too long, and it was ridiculous that she didn’t say something sooner before Benji got in deeper. Tessa was frustrating to no end. She forgave certain people for certain things that happened but kept throwing those same things in Ford’s face.
Overall, I was happy to finally see Tessa and Ford get their HEA. However, the road to get there kind of fell flat for me. I almost DNF at 20%, but I had been excited for Tessa and Ford to get their HEA, so I pushed through. The first book was so enjoyable, but I just can’t pinpoint what it was about this one that had me not as invested other than the HEA. There were parts that were repetitive, and the arguments kept circling back to the same thing. I found myself skimming through certain passages and skipping some altogether.
I normally don’t mind love triangles, but this one just didn’t work for me. I felt like Tessa strung Benji along for too long, and it was ridiculous that she didn’t say something sooner before Benji got in deeper. Tessa was frustrating to no end. She forgave certain people for certain things that happened but kept throwing those same things in Ford’s face.
April 25, 2024
Ford & Tessa. I will say their relationship has taken us on a bit of a roller coaster. It is one of those relationships that just scream Toxic. I am not going to lie for most of book 1 and book 2, I was team Bennett. He was there for Tessa. He was her safety net, the only one to help her come out of an anxiety attack and the only one who knew everything she had been through. I loved his patience with her and just that he loved her beyond question. Ford grows on me in this book. He admits his faults to himself, to Tessa, to their friends. He seeks therapy as does she and wanting to change to be the best man for Tessa. He redeems himself in my eyes to his past transgressions. In the end is it Ford or Bennett? Who does Tessa choose? You will have to read and see what happens.......
April 25, 2024
The perfect ending to a tragic love story
From the very first book of the pretty monsters trilogy I loved ford so much and was so hurt for him by Tessa and her actions. Book one of this duet got very dark and I began to understand her a little more. Their love was toxic and they never seemed to be on the same page. This book still had quite a few dark times but not as many as book one. I blew through this book hopping for their HEA. This book is sad and holy and hopeful all in one. You definitely have to read this one! Start with the pretty monsters trilogy and then come back to this one when you are done! You won’t regret it.
As with the others there re some heavy triggers in this book so be kind to yourself and make sure you are aware of what those are.
April 28, 2024
I really love this story. This is the conclusion to Pretty Broken Things. They must be read in order. Ford and Tessa's relationship has been kind of toxic from the beginning. They are also step siblings. They love each other, they hurt each other then they get back together. At the beginning of this book, Ford and Tessa are broken up and she is leaning heavily on her friend Benji who wants to be more than friends. But Ford will stop at nothing to win her back. The author really knows how to make you feel gut wrenching emotions in this brilliant duet. Ford and Tessa's story is one of my favorites.
July 21, 2025
I gave the last book 3.5/5⭐️ because the transition from a heartbreaking love story to a mafia, trauma story wasn’t seamless. But I think this book redeemed the duet for me. The last one wasn’t bad and was good enough to make me want to continue. So I was really happy to see Ford putting in the work to win Tessa back, not only in the physical sense, but emotionally and wholly, too. This book was much more of how I would’ve wanted book 1 to veer into. Although, I’m not the author and respect that it was written how it played out in their head. I’m giving this one 4⭐️ because it was really good. I really enjoyed it. And the narration was perfect.
September 11, 2025
Ford and Tessa's HEA hasn't been easy. After a horrific situation Tessa was forced into, she decides it's time to leave her former life behind. Moving back to Seattle, she finds solace with Bennett. He knows all her secrets and is the only person who has been there for her. When Ford is hurt, Tessa returns to see for herself that he's ok being he's the only man she's ever really loved. When the truth comes out, Ford begs Tessa to give him another chance to right all his wrongs even though she's engaged to Bennett.
Will Tessa choose her one and only true love or the man that comforted her during the darkest part of her life. Story could cause triggers for some, so be cautious.
Will Tessa choose her one and only true love or the man that comforted her during the darkest part of her life. Story could cause triggers for some, so be cautious.
April 27, 2024
Pretty Broken Promises is the second book in the Pretty Broken duet.
There are so many things to say about this book. Miss Carrillo took me on an emotional rollercoaster with this one: sobbing, laughing, wanting to throw my kindle across the room… but it was just the way it was meant to be.
In this book we see these characters moving forward in life, seeking help, growing as a person. This book isn’t as dark as the first one, but there are still some dark elements.
This was the perfect ending for this duet.
There are so many things to say about this book. Miss Carrillo took me on an emotional rollercoaster with this one: sobbing, laughing, wanting to throw my kindle across the room… but it was just the way it was meant to be.
In this book we see these characters moving forward in life, seeking help, growing as a person. This book isn’t as dark as the first one, but there are still some dark elements.
This was the perfect ending for this duet.
April 23, 2024
Pretty Broken Promises is the explosive conclusion to Kimberly Carrillo's amazing Pretty Broken duet. This book concludes Ford and Tessa's story, and it was so good! The non-stop action had my eyeballs glued to the pages until I couldn't keep them open any longer. I loved all of the drama and jealousy between these two, so there was just never a dull moment in this duet. I also fell in love with Benji. This duet is an absolute MUST read! A million stars!
April 25, 2024
What can I say about this book. This was everything that I needed and more. I was worried for a little bit, but stuck it out and I’m so glad that I did. Kimberly knows how to keep you invested and keeps you on the edge of your seat. This conclusion of this series was beautiful. The characters grow leaps and bounds in this book. They over come tragedy and obstacles. This book is everything I’d hoped it be and more.
April 25, 2024
I wish this were a 5 for me because I absolutely have loved everything I've read from this author. I just didn't feel like the dark murder/mafia part in book one meshed well with the rest of the story? I adored Fords character and the how the love story between him and Tessa played out. The dark dark part just seemed out of place for me. Had this been two different stories they both easily would have gotten 5 stars. I enjoy reading a good sports romance and was hoping there was more to that.
April 29, 2024
What I loved most about this book was the detail about how the characters dealt with and worked to overcome their trauma. The hard parts weren’t glazed over or given just a small mention while moving to “prettier” topics. Both Ford and Tessa were able to realize they each played a part in the toxicity and struggles of their relationship. They worked together to rebuild trust while having better communication and understanding. The journey and growth to get to the HEA was great to read.
May 6, 2024
Honestly, Ford! The man can not get out of his own way sometimes! And Shane, what the hell man?!?!?! Poor Benji though :(
The first book in this duet broke me so I was scared to read this book but am so glad I did! We get to see Ford grow up, realise what he is missing and fight for it! Sin and Raven are awesome people and make the best family/friends. Tessa has more secrets that noone new until the end but the conclusion and epilogue are just beautiful and relationship goals!
The first book in this duet broke me so I was scared to read this book but am so glad I did! We get to see Ford grow up, realise what he is missing and fight for it! Sin and Raven are awesome people and make the best family/friends. Tessa has more secrets that noone new until the end but the conclusion and epilogue are just beautiful and relationship goals!
August 28, 2025
Pretty Broken Promises is the conclusion to the Pretty Broken Duet. This story is complex, full of so much chemistry between Ford and Tessa. It is an emotionally charged story, full of so much sexual tension that will keep you on the edge of your seat. You get angst, humor, witty banter, secrets, second chances, heartbreaking moments, love and great friendships. This was a really good read.
Michael Joss and Phillipa Miller did a good job portraying these characters.
Michael Joss and Phillipa Miller did a good job portraying these characters.
April 24, 2024
Such a wonderful conclusion to a devastating story. With moments of heartbreak and triumph Ford and Tessa's story continued to captivate me. While less darker than book 1 there are still many sensitive and difficult moments and topics in this book. The story has many moments of happiness as the characters work to move forward.
April 24, 2024
This is the epic conclusion to Ford and Tessa's story! These two have worked hard for their relationship and to grow as people. It wasn't an easy read but so worth it. They were aggravating at times and I kept wondering if they would be on the same page at the same time. I really enjoyed reading their journey to happiness!
April 25, 2024
Pretty Broken Promises is the fantastic conclusion to Ford and Tessa's story. Everything is nonstop with this couple and as with Broken Things, this one will keep you consumed from start to finish. Remember to check trigger warnings, these characters story does touch on sensitive topics. What a great ending for this story.
April 27, 2024
This was such a great follow up to Pretty Broken Things! I for sure thought there was no way that Ford would be able to redeem himself and honestly thought maybe Tessa would be better off with Benji. But seriously, this man went leaps and bounds past what I thought he could do to get her back. Plus it helps that the spice level is chefs kiss.
May 9, 2024
Pretty Broken Promises by Kimberly Carrillo
Ford and Tessa conclusion has arrived and I’m so emotional being put through the wringer. From the beginning to end this was an amazing read. I loved how the author plotted this out. I loved how Tessa cared. But at last you have to read this duet. You don’t want to miss it.
Ford and Tessa conclusion has arrived and I’m so emotional being put through the wringer. From the beginning to end this was an amazing read. I loved how the author plotted this out. I loved how Tessa cared. But at last you have to read this duet. You don’t want to miss it.
July 21, 2025
Tessa and Ford
The conclusion of this duet. The narrators did a great job. I enjoyed listening to this once I started i didn't want to stop I liked this one more than the first they acted a bit more mature than the first part. In this one you get all the obstacles they have to face, the consequences to actions, more revelations and truths revealed.
The conclusion of this duet. The narrators did a great job. I enjoyed listening to this once I started i didn't want to stop I liked this one more than the first they acted a bit more mature than the first part. In this one you get all the obstacles they have to face, the consequences to actions, more revelations and truths revealed.
April 28, 2024
This is a dark intense read. This story has you feeling all the emotions. This is a roller coasters ride through out. This story has triggers so read the warnings. This story is about a chance to work out their relationship and going through emotions and time together.
April 28, 2024
Great Series
This book is heartbreaking. Tess and Ford have been through so much pain, pain they’ve caused each other and pain from others that don’t want them together. But in this book they fight each other and everyone else to stay together, to prove they were meant to be.
This book is heartbreaking. Tess and Ford have been through so much pain, pain they’ve caused each other and pain from others that don’t want them together. But in this book they fight each other and everyone else to stay together, to prove they were meant to be.
May 8, 2024
The conclusion of Ford and Tessa’s story is one that you absolutely cannot miss! Absolutely wonderfully written with so many twists and turns, I spent half of the book rooting for the couple and the other half swearing they should not be together!! This is a true must read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews